Charles Liu
Student Journalist & Program Lead
Charles Liu is a Grade 10 student journalist and community reporter. He writes about youth initiatives, cultural programs, and community stories in Oakville. He is interested in journalism, communication, and using storytelling to highlight local voices.
When Sheldon Liu first joined a community workshop, he never expected to become the person leading it.
Sheldon is a 15-year-old youth volunteer who hosted an English workshop through Ignite Spirit’s Cultural Ambassador Volunteer Program.
He joined Ignite Spirit in 2025. At that time, he was a newcomer that was struggling to adapt to Oakville community. He was applying to become a cultural ambassador because he wanted to “explore extracurricular activities and gain volunteer hours.” He created and hosted an English language-learning event. According to the feedback from over 10 participants in the event, Sheldon not only taught common English phrases, but also provided practical health-living strategies. The participants gave him feedbacks that made him feel more connected to the local community.
As an English learner leading an English language program, Sheldon also faced several obstacles. For example, he felt stressed after receiving feedbacks from workshop participants. “I don’t want to let them down,” said Sheldon, “My solution is to keep learning and keep trying.” Under his leadership, the volunteer team of Ignite Spirit has completed the design of dozens of English workshops during this summer vacation. “I’ve come far,” said Sheldon, “I am a different person compared to my first day in Oakville, and I feel proud of what I’ve done.”
Ignite Spirit’s Cultural Ambassador Volunteer Program currently includes 15 to 20 cultural ambassadors and additional volunteers who support community events. Volunteers can choose to participate in Inspire English Program, Youth on Fire Program, or annual special celebrations.
For Sheldon, the workshop was not only an opportunity to gain volunteer hours, but also a chance to connect with others and develop leadership skills.
